Last Soldier William J. Blair
Private William Blair (1846-1936) was the last living soldier of Shelby County. He was buried in nearby Carroll County. This memorial is listed in both counties. He served in Company I, 7th Iowa Infantry Regiment. Members of the Kinsman Camp placed a marker in a ceremony honoring Private Blair on April 28, 2018. His gravesite is in Manning Cemetery on the south edge of town off Center Street. The location is in Section 1, Block 3, and Lot 39. Thanks to Linda Linn for photos and information and Dan Rittel for information.